ABOUT

The Community Leadership Empowerment Program (CLEP) is funded under the U.S. Department of State Middle East Partnership Initiative Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, Office of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI). A unique program designed to engage directly with and invest in the peoples of the Middle East and North Africa, MEPI works to create vibrant partnerships with citizens to foster the development of pluralistic, participatory, and prosperous societies throughout the region. In support of US foreign policy goals with respect to the Middle East Peace Process, CLEP has supported grassroots leaders in over 120 communities throughout the West Bank to improve Palestinians’ quality of life. CLEP is strengthening targeted communities’ trust and confidence in local leaders and enhancing public participation among marginalized sectors through training, programming and improved community spaces. CLEP has provided $3 million in rapid, direct in-kind support to targeted Palestinian organizations and institutions and individuals, thereby enhancing accessible community spaces and increasing the number of beneficiaries of these organizations and institutions, and increasing the participation of qualified women and youth in Palestinian society and local governance. In its second phase of operation, CLEP is strengthening independence and self reliance within partner organizations through strategic planning by building vital technical capacities. Awareness of sustainability is also enforced and with CLEPs participatory approach, community members are fully involved in leadership and planning for the very first time.

MEPI partners with local, regional and international non-governmental organizations, the private sector, academic institutions, and governments. More information about MEPI can be found at: www.mepi.state.gov.